iPhone 8 Release Date, Specs Rumors: Third Smartphone Variant to Have 5.8-inch Display
There's been a lot of back-and-forth discussion when it comes to the screen size of Apple's next-generation smartphone, the iPhone 8. Apart from the usual 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch models, the Cupertino-based tech giant is slated to introduce a third variant with a new display size. However, there was confusion on whether it would be 5 inches or 5.8 inches.
Thankfully, the latest report from Nikkei Asian Review provides more clarity as the Japanese publication mentioned that the third model will have a 5.8-inch organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. This prediction is now in line with those made by other reliable analysts, including KGI Securities' Ming-Chi Kuo.
According to Mac Rumors, the 5.8-inch iPhone will have a form factor that is similar to the 4.7-inch model. This will be accomplished by removing the physical home button and incorporating slimmer bezels. As such, the front panel will have a 5.15-inch display and the remaining space will be reserved for a row of virtual buttons.
With the absence of the home button, reports also suggest that the Touch ID fingerprint sensor will be replaced by another type of biometric authentication, such as iris or facial recognition. On the other hand, a patent from Apple alludes to the possibility of the fingerprint sensor being embedded under the touchscreen display.
The much-talked-about 5.8-inch iPhone is rumored to be called the iPhone X to commemorate the premium smartphone's 10th anniversary.
Due to the addition of upgraded features, the iPhone 8 is expected to cost about $700 to $1,000. Nevertheless, the next-generation smartphone continues to be highly anticipated by consumers, which has had a positive effect on Apple's stock.
Citi analysts have raised Apple's price target to $160 from $140. This is in line with other financial analysts whose targets range from $150 to $185. It is also predicted that prices will continue to rise in anticipation of the sales and earnings growth, which will be spurred by the iPhone 8's launch.
Apple's iPhone 8 is expected to arrive this September.
